Dick Clark, Legendary TV Producer and Host, Passes Away At 82

New Year's Eve will never be the same: legendary TV producer and host Dick Clark has passed away at the age of 82, according to TMZ.

Clark's rep has stated that Clark was in the hospital for a medical procedure, but suffered a "massive heart attack" following the operation and could not be resuscitated. Health problems are nothing new for Clark, who survived a serious stroke nearly a decade ago, and dealt with Type 2 diabetes even before that.

Through all of those health issues, though, Clark continued to co-host the "Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve" program, which has aired without fail on ABC every year since 1972. Clark was as reliable as host as the show, helping ring in the new year every year except for 2004-05, when Regis Philbin filled in for Clark following his stroke. "American Idol" host Ryan Seacrest has also co-hosted since 2005.

Though his recent legacy is mostly focused on "New Year's Rockin' Eve," Clark's roots in the entertainment industry started with "American Bandstand," a popular musical performance (and lip sync) show that featured top 40 artists across decades. From the show's beginning in 1952 to its final season in 1989, Clark served as the host and brought his experience as a top 40 radio host with him.

Clark's other hosting and producing endeavors led him to the popular "Pyramid" series of game shows. Clark hosted the Emmy-winning game show from 1973-1988.

Clark's work ethic and love for the industry earned him a Lifetime Achievement award from the Daytime Emmys, as well as Emmy wins for his excellent hosting on "The (New) $25,000 Pyramid" and for his producing on "Donny & Marie."

Clark is survived by his third wife Kari Wigton and his three children.

Dick Clark has always been known for his familiar sign-off, "For now, Dick Clark... so long," accompanied by a friendly salute. Now we say so long to you, Dick, and we'll be thinking about you every time we see that ball drop in Times Square.

Hear Dick Clark ring in the year 2000 in the clip below, starting at 5:00: